Along with former NFL defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell, Birk is one of two appeals officers approved in conjunction by the NFL and the NFL Players Association. In this role, Birk will review discipline matters that have been appealed.

Birk was recommended by the NFLPA executive committee, which includes retired Ravens cornerback Domonique Foxworth, the players union president.

The NFL and union have not increased fines for this season, they announced Friday.